NCCN News
Journal: Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (2023)

On March 31 through April 2, the NCCN 2023 Annual Conference took place inperson in Orlando, Florida, and virtually, with a particular focus on human connection.That connection was underscored with more than 2,000 registrants from across the continuum of cancer care, including approximately 1,000 who returned in-person for the first time since 2019.Educational sessions highlighted the importance of ensuring care meets the latest standards while also rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach."At NCCN, we don't shy away from difficult discussions; we want our conference attendees to take away the message that it is not just okay, but imperative to ask tough questions," said Robert W. Carlson, MD, Chief Executive Officer, NCCN."The experts behind the evidence-based updates in the NCCN Guidelines have an opportunity to discuss their recommendations with the care providers who follow them.This year's program included multiple sessions dedicated to finding solutions for challenges, such as systemic bias, social determinants of health, and staffing issues, that can reduce people's access to the best possible cancer care."One question came up again and again: "Who are we missing?"This was examined during a plenary session on Best Practices for Addressing the Health Needs of the LGBTQ1 Community in Oncology Care, where speakers highlighted the lack of data on sexual orientation and gender identity in people with cancer.Panel participants also discussed how experiences with bias and misunderstanding can make people reluctant to engage with necessary healthcare.There can be added complications for people who have faced rejection from their biological family, or hardships such as food insecurity or a lack of safe spaces in their community."People will come to you if you let them know that it's safe for them to come to you," explained Shail Maingi, MD, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, while discussing how to alleviate mistrust."If your practice shows it is affirming and can do trauma-informed care, people will travel from all over to see you.When I walk into a room, I don't make assumptions about who is with the patient.And at the end of the encounter, I always ask, 'Is there anything more you want to talk about?'"The question of "Who are we missing?" came up again in multiple sessions focused on increasing equity in cancer care.Topics included: Programs to Reduce Hospital Admissions and Readmissions; Sexual Identity and Function in Patients With Cancer and Survivors; Cancer Screening in Underrepresented Populations; and Social Determinants of Health: Collection, Integration, and Intervention.In another plenary session-this one focused on Sleep Disorders, Fatigue, and Cognitive Function in Cancer Survivors-speakers again noted a lack of data.The panelists explained that there is good evidence showing that physical activity can help with cancer-related fatigue.But when it comes to other interventions dealing with sleep disorders and cognitive impairment, a lot more research is needed.Panelists also cautioned: "These are individualized experiences that require individualized consultation with the patient and provider."Reducing staff burnout and turnover is another area where asking the right question can go a long way.In a plenary session on Health System Recruitment and Retention Strategies, speakers pointed out how the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused everyone to reassess their lives and priorities.It also accelerated an already-looming workforce shortage in oncology.The panel participants found that the best way to retain high-value employees was to listen to them, support their needs, and keep them on a path that was both challenging and fulfilling.